In spring 2024, our horticulture department was excited to be involved in creating a landscape plan for the new Wild Care Center. The project focused on two main areas: foundation plants for the building and animal-friendly plants for the four animal runs behind the center. Our team was eager to ensure that the plants chosen would not only enhance the beauty of the space but also support the wildlife that would call it home.
Native Plants for a Sustainable Landscape
In early May, we received the official design plan, which originally included non-native plants. As our horticulture department is committed to growing native plants that thrive in the local environment, we decided to spruce things up. We replaced non-native species with carefully selected native plants that are better suited to the region.
- Inkberry Holly (“Ilex glabra“) replaced Hoogendorn Japanese Holly.
- Sweet Pepper Bush (“Clethra alnifolia“) took the place of Encore Azalea.
- Oakleaf Hydrangea (“Hydrangea quercifolia“) substituted ‘Little Quick Fire’ Hydrangea.
Some of these plants were grown on-site, while others were sourced locally. By opting for native plants, we not only ensured greater long-term success but also saved the museum a large amount of money and got to play a key role in the creation of the Wild Care Center.
Pictured above are a few “before” pictures of the Wild Care Center with grass and new native plants. We can’t wait to share more photos throughout the season as the plants fill out.
Designing Animal-Friendly Spaces
In fall 2024, we had another opportunity to contribute to the Wild Care Center by designing plant installations for the four animal runs facing the boardwalk. Working closely with our animal experts, Britt Sorenson and Carrie Bridgeman, to make sure all the plants chosen would be safe for any animals in our collection who may call the WCC home.
After coming up with a list of animal-friendly plants, the next step was to design the space. It may seem simple, but there’s a lot to consider—like how tall the plants will grow. They may look small now, but they’ll grow! We carefully planned everything, from choosing plants that would reach the right height to making sure there was a mix of colors, textures, and fragrances for year-round interest. We also wanted to put a few extra plants in so that if (when) our animals walked on (destroyed) some of the plants it wouldn’t look too bare. No judgment here—”opossums gonna opossum.”
Over 100 native perennials and shrubs were planted in the four runs, all grown on-site by the horticulture department and our dedicated volunteers.
A Rewarding Experience for the Horticulture Department
To say that the Horticulture Department enjoyed their involvement with the Wild Care Center would be an understatement. We got to flex our mental muscles, as well as our literal muscles, and create warm, welcoming environments for some of our favorite VLM animal ambassadors.
The Horticulture Department is proud to be part of the VLM’s ongoing mission to educate, highlight, and preserve Virginia natives of all types.
How to Learn More About Planting Native Plants Sustainably
If you’re inspired by our work at the Wild Care Center and want to bring sustainable, native plantings to your own space, our horticulture team offers several ways to help you get started:
- Join a Behind-the-Scenes Walking Tour
Discover more about the world of native plants by taking a guided tour with our horticulture experts. You’ll explore the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into maintaining our beautiful landscapes and learn about the native species we grow right here at the museum. - Schedule a Home Consultation
Get personalized advice on sustainable gardening by scheduling a home consultation with one of our horticulturists. We’ll come to your home and provide recommendations on the best native plants for your garden, offering tips on how to create a thriving, eco-friendly landscape. - Attend Workshops and Classes
Stay tuned for upcoming workshops and classes where you can dive deeper into topics like native plant selection, sustainable gardening practices, and how to create wildlife-friendly spaces in your own yard. - Shop our native plant sale
Join us for our native plant sale May 3-4th and May 10th-11th. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, we’ve got something for everyone.
To learn more or to sign up for any of these opportunities, visit our website or contact our horticulture department directly. Start your journey toward a more sustainable garden today!
Written by Courtney Crenshaw and the VLM Horticulture Team.
